President William Ruto has mourned Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla, describing him as a man who was influential to many people, including his daughter, Charlene Ruto.
Ruto spoke at General Ogolla’s funeral service in Ng’iya, Siaya County, where he shared a conversation he had with his daughter on Saturday. Charlene expressed her desire to attend the burial and give a speech.
The President informed his daughter that it would not be possible, but Charlene cleverly made her way to the podium to address the mourners.
“I was surprised, amazed actually that my own daughter was greatly influenced by General Ogolla. Yesterday she called me and told me that she wants to go to the funeral of General Ogolla and she wanted to speak,” the President shared.
“I told her there’s no way you are going and there is no way you are speaking anywhere. As fate would have it she found her way here and before I could notice she was on the microphone. That’s how General Ogolla was influential.”
In a strategy to outsmart her father and the event organisers, Charlene struck a deal with General Ogolla’s daughter Lorna. When it was her time to talk, she (Lorna) called Charlene to address mourners.
Charlene expressed her condolences to the family, stating that young people have lost a mentor and a champion in General Ogolla.
She added that despite General Ogolla influencing numerous young people in the defense forces, his impact was felt across various leadership positions and fields, such as climate space, sports, health practitioners, and many more.
Charlene shared that she had met General Ogolla once, where she experienced his kindness, genuine care, and love for young people.
“His death has hit me and my team so hard because in the fight for youth inclusion, many listen to us but few encourage, support, advise, or guide. General Ogolla was among the few,” Charlene stated.
